James Klepach

CMSGT James Stephen Klepach, of Pipe Creek, TX passed away unexpectedly on May 20,2022.  He was born in Renton, Washington to Joseph and Mary Klepach on November 1, 1933.

In his younger years, Jim loved the frequent trips he and his family would make to Roslyn, WA.  Visiting with many relatives and frolicking through the mountains and picking blackberries with his cousins.

Jim attended O’Dea High School where he excelled in football.  Unfortunately due to the number of broken noses, he was advised not to pursue college football due to health risks.

As a result of not continuing football, he enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1952.  Jim decided to make the military his career as he served for 27 years retiring in 1979.  Jim was very proud of his service to his country and received the following:   Joint Service Commendation Medal; Meritorious Service Medal; AFC Accommodation Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon; Army Good Conduct Metal with two loops; AF Longevity Service Award with one silver oak leaf cluster; National Defense Service Medal with one battle star; Vietnam Service Medal with two service stars; Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with palms; Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal; AF Good Conduct Medal with one silver oak leaf cluster; AF Presidential Unit Citation; AF Outstanding Unit award; AF Outstanding Unit Award with V device, Navy Unit Commendation Extension of enlistment for retirement.

After retirement from the USAF, Jim worked Civil service for the United States Post Office for 14 years.

Jim’s favorite past times included living in the country and having many varieties of animals and birds. Some would call him “Dr. Doo Little”.  He loved his plants and definitely had a natural green thumb which he inherited from his Dad. And of course, his favorite piece of machinery, his tractor.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, sister’s Ellen Sandbo and Margaret Manney, brother Joseph Klepach, son-in-law Danny Herald, Jr. and granddaughter Tiffany Herald.

Jim is survived by his wife, Lynn Spivey. Daughters Kim Edwards (Guy) and Chery Quesnot.  Sons, Craig Klepach (Priscilla) and Neil (Sheri) Klepach. Sister Frannie Klepach and the mother of his children Janet Klepach.  Also surviving are his 12 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

All services will be held on June 2, 2022 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Bandera TX.

Visitation will begin at 9:30, followed by the Rosary at 10:30, and Mass at 11:00.

Burial will be held at a later date at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery.

Pallbearers:  Craig Klepach, Neil Klepach, Brandon Klepach, Tyler Klepach, Garrett Klepach and Danny Herald.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warriors or an organization of your choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Grimes Bandera Funeral Chapel, 1214 Mulberry, Bandera, Texas 78003.